Atrium and Novant make changes to visitor restrictions after flu and COVID cases decrease
Charlotte’s largest hospital systems lifted visitor restrictions on Thursday after respiratory cases dropped in the region.
Atrium Health and Novant Health are now allowing children under the age of 13 to visit area hospitals. The restrictions began in mid-January after an increase of people catching viruses such as the flu, COVID and RSV, a contagious respiratory infection.
The viral season started late this season with high rates of cases, according to Dr. Katie Passaretti, chief infection prevention officer for Atrium parent company Advocate Health.
“While this year’s season is coming to a close, we must remain vigilant and responsive to any potential changes,” she said. “Our focus remains on providing safe and effective care to all patients, and this decision is a testament to our collective efforts in combating infectious diseases.”
Novant observed a steady decline in the volume of severe respiratory illnesses over the past several weeks, said Dr. David Priest, Novant senior vice president and chief safety/quality officer.
“We thank everyone for their cooperation and support to keep our patients safe during peak respiratory virus season,” Priest said. “We look forward to welcoming back visitors of all ages to our hospitals.”
The flu season typically runs from October through May in the U.S., according to health experts. Since 1982, February has been the peak month, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Statewide, there were more than 31,200 hospital admissions from late December through March 22 in emergency departments for people diagnosed with a respiratory virus or symptoms, according to the latest data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. The highest weekly count was Feb. 2 through Feb.8 with 3,551 cases.
Mask policies at Charlotte hospitals
At Novant facilities, masks remain optional for visitors, but wearing them is encouraged.
Masking may be required masking around areas for high-risk patients, including those in isolation. Patients can also require people around them to wear masks.
Masks are also optional at Atrium and will be available to visitors too. They will remain in place for anyone in high-risk patient areas indicated by signage and for patients with symptoms of illness.
Limiting the spread of viruses
Although flu season is over, Novant and Atrium are asking people to help stop the spread of respiratory illness by staying home when sick, getting vaccinated and practicing good respiratory hygiene. This includes washing hands, covering noses and mouths when coughing or sneezing and avoiding close contact with others when feeling sick.
The health systems are asking people with flu-like symptoms to contact their primary care provider for more information. Urgent care and virtual visits are another option for Novant and Atrium.
Additional information about Novant services are available at NovantHealth.org/PrimaryNow or www.gohealthuc.com/novant for urgent care and virtual care options patients. Health information for Atrium is available at AtriumHealth.org.
